Schneiderlin – who represented his nation at the World Cup – is thought to be convinced that the South Coast club can no longer match his ambitions, and a move to join his former manager Mauricio Pochettino at White Hart Lane is appealing.

The 24-year-old is prepared to let his feelings be known to Southampton’s hierarchy, which may result in his sale with the club thought to be ready to get rid of any players who don’t want to be at St Mary’s Stadium.

Meanwhile the Hampshire outfit are desperate to keep Rodriguez, but appear to be losing a battle with the forward having rejected two contract offers from them – although it’s unclear as to whether or not he has asked to leave.